What he brings: Made the team to be stashed away for the future as a Rule 5 pick, but he can't be hidden. He'll begin as a long reliever as he is seen as a future starter, so his role could change from there.

What he brings: As he enters his third year on the opening day roster, he's had trouble holding on to big league jobs but has shown enough promise in the minors and in spring with a swing adjustment that he's earned another spot.

What he brings: The free agent half of the plan to upgrade power in the middle infield. Extrapolate last year's total to 600 at-bats, and he hits 31 home runs, but that's far more than he's hit any of the last four years.

What he brings: Excitement over his breakout 2010 can only be tempered by skepticism for the foundation on which he built it. More than six times as many strikeouts as walks doesn't bode well, but the ability to drive the ball is undeniable.

What he brings: An outstanding spring training gradually answered questions about Wallace's spot on the roster, but those about his regular season hitting remain after .222 season last year. Astros extremely optimistic.

How acquired: Traded with Geoff Geary and Mike Constanzo from Philadelphia for Brad Lidge and Eric Bruntlett, November 2007

2010 stats: 141 G, .265 BA, .341 OBP, .346 SLG, 2 HR, 38 RBI

What he brings: As a back-to-back National League steals leader and Gold Glover, brings plenty of value elsewhere to boost pedestrian numbers with the bat. An emphasis on bunting this year could improve those.

What he brings: The profile of a two-tool player in decline. Lee is still capable of a big year and a rebound will be vital, but he doesn't have any other skills to offset another down year offensively.

What he brings: The most well-rounded repertoire on the team. Pence doesn't have an elite tool, but he has very few weaknesses, especially if that lower strikeout rate is for real, and that makes him valuable.

What he brings: Barmes will be the starting shortstop when the bone heals up, which should be in early-mid May. He's probably a stronger glove than bat at this point, but the Astros hope he can help their power void.

What he brings: Ability to play second base, shortstop or third base and be one of the best contact hitters when he returns in May. It will be off the bench, though, as the Astros went a power route with Bill Hall and Clint Barmes.